The simplest answer is to show
gratitude to the woman of the house
who lead the preparations for Shabbos.
She is likely tired and over-worked
and deserves our sincere thanks!

Rabbi Eliyahu Lopian zt”l (1872-1970)
recounted a great mystery which he set
out to solve. When he first came to
learn under the Alter of Kelm, Rabbi
Simcha Zissel Ziv Broida zt”l
(1824-98), he was in awe of the
Alter’s wife. Rebbetzin Chaya Leah
appeared to be a superwoman! She
cooked, cleaned, cared for her three
children and at the same time was
dedicated to every need of the Yeshiva
as well. How did she do so much and
maintain her enthusiasm and vigor?!

This enigma was solved the first time
that young Eliyahu was invited for a
Shabbos meal. When they entered the
house after Shul on Friday night, the
Alter gave his wife a magnificently
warm greeting and enumerated to her
all of the appreciation he had for her
hard work to organize, cook and care
for the family’s needs. She was
beaming. After making Kiddish and
HaMotzie, the Alter smiled at the
Rebbetzin and told her that her
Challah was the sweetest and most
delicious that he had ever tasted. The
pride and joy found on the Rebbetzin’s
face explained everything to Rabbi
Lopian. When someone feels truly
appreciated, recognized and validated,
they experience a magical surge of
energy that inspires them to continue
their great accomplishments. That joy
and fulfillment is truly powerful.